Ithaca commits to Green New Deal for community carbon neutrality by 2030

The Ithaca City Council convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss the implementation of the Green New Deal, a government-led initiative aimed at achieving community-wide carbon neutrality by 2030. The meeting highlighted the program's focus on addressing historical inequities, economic inequality, and social justice through sustainable practices.

The Green New Deal outlines a comprehensive approach to decarbonizing various sectors in Ithaca, including commercial, residential, industrial, and transportation. A key aspect of the initiative is to adapt to the impacts of climate change, thereby fostering a more resilient community.

During the meeting, four explicit goals were presented within the resolution. The first goal is a commitment to carbon neutrality by February 2030. This includes ensuring that government operations meet their electricity needs with 100% renewable energy by 2025. Additionally, the city aims to reduce emissions from its vehicle fleet by 50% by the same year.

A significant emphasis was placed on ensuring that the benefits of the Green New Deal are equitably shared among all local communities, with the intention of reducing historical social and economic disparities.

The meeting served as a platform for council members to engage with the community on these critical issues, reinforcing the city's commitment to sustainability and climate justice. As the council moves forward, the focus will remain on implementing these goals and fostering an inclusive approach to environmental progress.